Shipping Arabia, October 28, 2026 – Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has emphasized the importance of Port of Tripoli development, infrastructure modernization and digital transformation to strengthen Lebanon’s maritime competitiveness and support integration into the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). His remarks came during an official visit to the port, where he reviewed operational capabilities, security systems and strategic development plans.
President Aoun was accompanied by Minister of Public Works and Transport Fayez Rasamny, Minister of Interior and Municipalities Ahmad Al-Hajjar, Minister of Justice Adel Nassar, and Minister of Economy and Trade Amer Bisat. Senior government and security officials also participated in the visit.
The delegation was welcomed by Port of Tripoli Board Chairman Iskandar Bendali, Port Authority Director Dr. Ahmad Tamer and Tripoli Special Economic Zone Chairman Dr. Hassan Dannawi. Other participants included Vice Chairperson Sarah Al Charif, board members Nour Alameddine, Simon Abdel Massih and Maryam Eid, alongside representatives of Lebanese Customs.
Port of Tripoli Development and IMEC Integration
During the visit, President Aoun highlighted the need to strengthen port infrastructure, operational capacity, governance and digital capabilities. These priorities are intended to support Lebanon’s integration into the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor and improve the country’s maritime connectivity.
Discussions also addressed the participation of the ports of Tripoli and Beirut in the IMEC Ports Club. Officials emphasized the importance of coordinating port development with digital and customs integration to facilitate international trade.
The discussions positioned Port of Tripoli development within Lebanon’s broader efforts to improve maritime infrastructure and strengthen connections with regional and international markets.
President Aoun also stressed the importance of modernizing port operations to enhance efficiency and support the country’s economic development objectives.
National Single Window and Port Community System Integration
Port of Tripoli Board Chairman Iskandar Bendali emphasized the importance of presidential support for several initiatives aimed at strengthening Lebanon’s port sector.
Among the main priorities was establishing a National Single Window to improve the coordination of trade-related procedures. Bendali also highlighted the need to strengthen Lebanese Customs and connect digital systems with the Port Community System (PCS).
These measures aim to facilitate trade, improve coordination among port stakeholders and enhance the competitiveness of Lebanese ports.
Digital integration formed a central part of the discussions, particularly in relation to the operational and administrative improvements needed to support participation in international trade corridors.
The focus on customs modernization and digital connectivity reflects the importance placed on improving the efficiency of port-related processes alongside physical infrastructure development.
Container Terminal Operations and Port Security Systems
President Aoun and the accompanying delegation toured several operational facilities at the Port of Tripoli to assess existing capabilities and security arrangements.
The visit included the port’s control and monitoring room, where Brigadier Haroun provided an overview of the security systems used to monitor and protect port operations.
The delegation also inspected the container terminal and scanning facilities. Joseph Dakkak, Chairman of CMA CGM Lebanon, delivered a technical briefing on the terminal facilities and their operations.
The inspection provided the delegation with an opportunity to review the port’s operational infrastructure and the systems supporting cargo handling, monitoring and security.
These operational assessments formed part of the wider discussions on improving port capacity, modernization and competitiveness.
Tripoli Special Economic Zone Investment Opportunities
Investment opportunities linked to the Tripoli Special Economic Zone were another focus of the presidential visit.
Dr. Hassan Dannawi, Chairman of the Tripoli Special Economic Zone, presented potential areas for investment and cooperation aimed at stimulating economic activity and creating employment opportunities.
The discussions highlighted the potential relationship between port development, investment promotion and economic activity in Tripoli and northern Lebanon.
The Special Economic Zone’s investment opportunities were presented alongside the wider port development priorities, including infrastructure improvements and international trade connectivity.
President Aoun Highlights Tripoli’s Strategic Maritime Role
At the conclusion of the visit, President Aoun recorded a message in the Port of Tripoli’s Golden Book, emphasizing the port’s strategic importance to Lebanon.
He praised its role in connecting the country with regional and international markets, while highlighting its contribution to economic recovery, trade and investment.
The president also acknowledged the importance of the port in supporting development across Tripoli, northern Lebanon and the wider Lebanese economy.
The visit brought together discussions on infrastructure modernization, operational capacity, customs integration, digital transformation and investment opportunities. These priorities remain central to efforts to strengthen the Port of Tripoli’s competitiveness and its role in Lebanon’s maritime trade network.
Source: Port of Tripoli
